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Unbound
Jesse Miller has spent his entire life holding hateful protest signs outside the places his church condemns. Then he is forced to walk into a gay bar and everything changes.
Adrian Costas shouldn't care about the gorgeous protester who stumbled into his world. But when his friends dare him to shake Jesse's faith, Adrian can't resist the challenge. What starts as a game becomes something real when Jesse begins questioning everything he's been taught.
Their Constitutional Law class forces them together, and Jesse discovers a dangerous the world he's been taught to hate might be exactly where he belongs.
A story about found family, forbidden love, overcoming hate, and the courage it takes to finally be yourself.
Adrian Costas shouldn't care about the gorgeous protester who stumbled into his world. But when his friends dare him to shake Jesse's faith, Adrian can't resist the challenge. What starts as a game becomes something real when Jesse begins questioning everything he's been taught.
Their Constitutional Law class forces them together, and Jesse discovers a dangerous the world he's been taught to hate might be exactly where he belongs.
A story about found family, forbidden love, overcoming hate, and the courage it takes to finally be yourself.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2025
12 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 26, 2025
Struggling to write a review for this because this one REALLY hurt.
Seriously, the trigger warnings are extra important for this one. Saying it as someone who's big headed enough to continuously skip TWs in books because 'I love surprises' 💀
The conversion camp scenes are very graphic. So.
On the other hand, there's this running bit of the two MCs and various colored underwear that's really sweet, so that helps😂
And seeing the anti-queer protestor HAVE to argue FOR marriage equality until he realizes his entire belief system is wrong on his own, vs having someone have to tell him REALLY worked for me, can't lie.
Honestly, this one veers between sweet and sad, then back again.
Jesse's the kind of sweet MC you want to put in bubble wrap so nothing can hurt him again.
Adrian's the kind you (I*) wanted to be mistrustful of, but he ended up going above and beyond to prove himself.
Also, there's a bet. Which, yes, I know. I usually hate when MCs get together because one started things as a way to prove a point. Always seems unnecessarily callous.
Ended up loving the side characters BECAUSE of their approach to that situation. Without spoilers, they're a refreshing bunch for a college-aged MC to have as friends.
Refreshing enough that I'd actually want to read about some of them finding love in their own stories. Lol. Maybe I'm changing my mind on series after how well Cut & Run went.
Anyway. Given all they had going on, I'm surprised they still found enough time to study. Barely had anything going on during uni and I STILL shunned studying for as long as I could get away with every semester so....
No context spoilers:
Burgundy delights
Disobedient bladders
Undercover beards
Devil's advocate
***Bible thumping parents that literally crawled out of hell(nothing 'no context' about this one lol)
Seriously, the trigger warnings are extra important for this one. Saying it as someone who's big headed enough to continuously skip TWs in books because 'I love surprises' 💀
The conversion camp scenes are very graphic. So.
On the other hand, there's this running bit of the two MCs and various colored underwear that's really sweet, so that helps😂
And seeing the anti-queer protestor HAVE to argue FOR marriage equality until he realizes his entire belief system is wrong on his own, vs having someone have to tell him REALLY worked for me, can't lie.
Honestly, this one veers between sweet and sad, then back again.
Jesse's the kind of sweet MC you want to put in bubble wrap so nothing can hurt him again.
Adrian's the kind you (I*) wanted to be mistrustful of, but he ended up going above and beyond to prove himself.
Also, there's a bet. Which, yes, I know. I usually hate when MCs get together because one started things as a way to prove a point. Always seems unnecessarily callous.
Ended up loving the side characters BECAUSE of their approach to that situation. Without spoilers, they're a refreshing bunch for a college-aged MC to have as friends.
Refreshing enough that I'd actually want to read about some of them finding love in their own stories. Lol. Maybe I'm changing my mind on series after how well Cut & Run went.
Anyway. Given all they had going on, I'm surprised they still found enough time to study. Barely had anything going on during uni and I STILL shunned studying for as long as I could get away with every semester so....
No context spoilers:
Burgundy delights
Disobedient bladders
Undercover beards
Devil's advocate
***Bible thumping parents that literally crawled out of hell(nothing 'no context' about this one lol)
Read
October 28, 2025This book was… raw. Beautiful, but raw. No frills, no bows, nothing to make it palatable or pretty, it is honest, and true, and very, very raw. Be careful reading it, beware of the trigger warnings, not only for certain scenes that are obviously disturbing in their cruel reality, but every single second of Jesse’s journey it’s very emotionally charged. I had a hard time breathing when he leaves to go with Rebecca and looks back at Adrian… it was heartbreaking and powerful, and it set the pace for the rest of the book. I appreciated the honesty and openness about the whole journey, not just the pretty parts, or just the dark ones, we get the whole gamut of emotions, experiences, horrors and beauty. It’s a slice of life in all its imperfect glory. I’ve seen both sides of the coin in my own life, lived some of those things on both sides with loved ones, and it’s portrayed with a stark sense of beauty and realism that left me breathless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
Jesse’s desperation to be free is matched only by Adrian’s commitment to set him free. I was wary of Adrian’s single-minded pursuit of Jesse. And heartbroken for Jesse as he struggled with his faith. Ugly cried through the entirety of the book. This was one of the hardest reads so far. But also the most important and powerful.
November 5, 2025
This book was absolutely phenomenal. I cried reading this book in ways that I have never cried reading a romance book before. I have read books by CG.Macington before so I thought that I knew what I was getting into. I was very wrong. This book is heavy, but in the best way possible. It’s not your run of the mill queer awakening. These are two incredibly complex characters that survive a horrible and very real situation. There is layers upon layers of religious trauma and choosing your own identity. This is a book about found family and how family doesn’t have to have anything to do with blood. Highlighted an annotated more parts of this book than I have ever annotated anything other than a textbook. There were so many lines that I want to carry with me. This is an amazing book. This is an eye-opening book. This is a romance book. But it is not light and fluffy. By reading this, you are getting depth and pain and that provoking love.
"Thank you," I said, my voice carrying across the sudden quiet. "For seeing me before I could see myself. For believing I was worth saving. For teaching me that love isn't supposed to hurt." I pressed my forehead against his. "I love you, Adrian Costas. I love you proudly, completely, and without shame."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Thank you," I said, my voice carrying across the sudden quiet. "For seeing me before I could see myself. For believing I was worth saving. For teaching me that love isn't supposed to hurt." I pressed my forehead against his. "I love you, Adrian Costas. I love you proudly, completely, and without shame."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 20, 2025
REVIEW: Unbound is a MUST READ. This was an amazing book. Jesse’s internal struggle broke my heart. Adrian pushes him to think outside of what has been fed to him his entire life by his parents and church. No spoilers, but things get worse before they get better and I cried multiple times reading this.
In the end, Overcoming hatred, and having the courage to be yourself are tested. Adrians friends give amazing support in this story and Elijah makes a statement that brought me waterworks.
A 5 star read!
In the end, Overcoming hatred, and having the courage to be yourself are tested. Adrians friends give amazing support in this story and Elijah makes a statement that brought me waterworks.
A 5 star read!
Did not finish
January 5, 2026I have to DNF at the moment as it's making me quite angry. May return to it later when I am in a better frame of mind.
November 25, 2025
Wow, the story of Jesse and Adrian was gripping, an emotional roller coaster with anger vying with compassion and caring at the journey Jesse endured, not once but twice. It is relevant in the political climate we live in today, and I would hope that this book would be widely read to help educate about the dangers and possible consequences to individuals caught in religious extremism, and the conversion camps that still exist today.
I found the sections dealing with the Constitution and the arguments about constitutional protection of fundamental rights from governmental interference under the Fourteenth Amendment to be very educational. Never having really studied the Constitution in depth, I learned a lot about how the state bans on same-sex marriage violated the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses in the Fourteenth Amendment, and about the arguments used in relation to the marriage equality act specifically. The Equal Protection Clause promises “no state shall deny any person the equal protection of the laws, and is a promise that government will treat all citizens with equal dignity and respect.” Reading about Adrian and Jesse preparing for their debate and then the presentation fascinated me as the reader follows their basic research and the application of the law to this case. I also found it interested how the application of logic, and the understanding behind the arguments were actually able to help Jesse overcome all he had been “taught” was true his whole life.
I was upset with Adrian earlier in the book and his motivation for pursuing Jesse, I felt he was playing with fire, thinking he knew what Jesse needed, not considering the points raised by Sam and Elijah of possible consequences to Jesse, looking only through his lens and ignoring Jesse’s. I was glad to see the original motivation shifted to one of care and concern for Jesse, the more he “saw” who Jesse was.
I also found it interesting to see Jesse’s acceptance at the beginning of the book, even though there was hesitation, but he just fell in line with what he knew. It seemed a bit off, but I wasn’t sure why. The way Adrian challenged him, especially with their studying together, seemed to me to release the true Jesse as he applied logic to his belief system.
This isn’t an easy book to read, but I’m so glad I did. I appreciated Adrian’s found family and the various viewpoints they represented, I liked the way Adrian and Jesse played off each other and the way Jesse seemed to shed layers with Adrian, and I understood Jesse’s sense of responsibility, even though I didn’t agree with it, but he stayed true to his convictions. I warmed up more to Adrian the more he actually started to “see” Jesse, and handle him with more care and respect as feelings and perspectives changed. Difficult to read in places or not, the book was excellent. I would definitely recommend it as a book to get you thinking.
I received an advance reader copy and this is my voluntary review.
I found the sections dealing with the Constitution and the arguments about constitutional protection of fundamental rights from governmental interference under the Fourteenth Amendment to be very educational. Never having really studied the Constitution in depth, I learned a lot about how the state bans on same-sex marriage violated the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses in the Fourteenth Amendment, and about the arguments used in relation to the marriage equality act specifically. The Equal Protection Clause promises “no state shall deny any person the equal protection of the laws, and is a promise that government will treat all citizens with equal dignity and respect.” Reading about Adrian and Jesse preparing for their debate and then the presentation fascinated me as the reader follows their basic research and the application of the law to this case. I also found it interested how the application of logic, and the understanding behind the arguments were actually able to help Jesse overcome all he had been “taught” was true his whole life.
I was upset with Adrian earlier in the book and his motivation for pursuing Jesse, I felt he was playing with fire, thinking he knew what Jesse needed, not considering the points raised by Sam and Elijah of possible consequences to Jesse, looking only through his lens and ignoring Jesse’s. I was glad to see the original motivation shifted to one of care and concern for Jesse, the more he “saw” who Jesse was.
I also found it interesting to see Jesse’s acceptance at the beginning of the book, even though there was hesitation, but he just fell in line with what he knew. It seemed a bit off, but I wasn’t sure why. The way Adrian challenged him, especially with their studying together, seemed to me to release the true Jesse as he applied logic to his belief system.
This isn’t an easy book to read, but I’m so glad I did. I appreciated Adrian’s found family and the various viewpoints they represented, I liked the way Adrian and Jesse played off each other and the way Jesse seemed to shed layers with Adrian, and I understood Jesse’s sense of responsibility, even though I didn’t agree with it, but he stayed true to his convictions. I warmed up more to Adrian the more he actually started to “see” Jesse, and handle him with more care and respect as feelings and perspectives changed. Difficult to read in places or not, the book was excellent. I would definitely recommend it as a book to get you thinking.
I received an advance reader copy and this is my voluntary review.
Read
January 10, 2026Excellent book...
I don't hand out five stars often, but this deserves it. I've read hundreds of MM romances by now, some have truly stuck with my heart and brain.
Jesse....sweet Jesse. He broke my heart, it physically hurt for him. I can't imagine what it's like to be programmed from birth to hate groups of people just because God says it's wrong. I am a Christian, a TRUE Christian, who believes love is love in all shapes, forms, and sizes. The fundamentalist ones you see in this book are running the country today, and they're nothing but extremist white supremacists. Jesse endured that and was further repressed with conversion therapy at 14.
Enter Adrian. Yes, his original intention to "convert" Jesse were pretty selfish, I would say anyone reading this story would agree with that. He is the only person who could have helped Jesse, though. He was his match, they fit together perfectly. Adrian is what Jesse needed and Jesse is what Adrian needed.
The topics are heavy - hate, bigotry, self loathing, conversion therapy. Even though I read what he went through the 8 weeks he was in that place, I had to dissociate a little just so I could get through that part. What Jesse endures internally and externally is difficult to read, but he is so, so strong and resilient. Adrian was there to help put him back together, more than once, but Jesse did all the work. He's my favorite character, I have such a soft spot for him.
Aside from that, the author was very thorough with their research into constitutional law. I loved how Jesse and Adrian connected in this way, they were seamless in the education aspect of the story. I think having them talk it out in the story was brilliant, I learned quite a bit.
It takes a lot out of me to read a heavier book, but the ending was worth it. Their love story is beautiful and Jesse deserved his HEA. I would encourage anyone who struggles with their sexual identity, or has had a life of being programmed to think and feel a certain way, to read this. Anyone who struggles is not alone, even though it may feel that way. The author did well with relaying that message. It is beautifully written.
I don't hand out five stars often, but this deserves it. I've read hundreds of MM romances by now, some have truly stuck with my heart and brain.
Jesse....sweet Jesse. He broke my heart, it physically hurt for him. I can't imagine what it's like to be programmed from birth to hate groups of people just because God says it's wrong. I am a Christian, a TRUE Christian, who believes love is love in all shapes, forms, and sizes. The fundamentalist ones you see in this book are running the country today, and they're nothing but extremist white supremacists. Jesse endured that and was further repressed with conversion therapy at 14.
Enter Adrian. Yes, his original intention to "convert" Jesse were pretty selfish, I would say anyone reading this story would agree with that. He is the only person who could have helped Jesse, though. He was his match, they fit together perfectly. Adrian is what Jesse needed and Jesse is what Adrian needed.
The topics are heavy - hate, bigotry, self loathing, conversion therapy. Even though I read what he went through the 8 weeks he was in that place, I had to dissociate a little just so I could get through that part. What Jesse endures internally and externally is difficult to read, but he is so, so strong and resilient. Adrian was there to help put him back together, more than once, but Jesse did all the work. He's my favorite character, I have such a soft spot for him.
Aside from that, the author was very thorough with their research into constitutional law. I loved how Jesse and Adrian connected in this way, they were seamless in the education aspect of the story. I think having them talk it out in the story was brilliant, I learned quite a bit.
It takes a lot out of me to read a heavier book, but the ending was worth it. Their love story is beautiful and Jesse deserved his HEA. I would encourage anyone who struggles with their sexual identity, or has had a life of being programmed to think and feel a certain way, to read this. Anyone who struggles is not alone, even though it may feel that way. The author did well with relaying that message. It is beautifully written.
October 27, 2025
Did not know what I was getting into with this book. It is brilliant in many ways.
It started with a number of Church people protesting a gay bar when Jessie needs a washroom so sneaks in. Adrian stops him on the way out and challenges him in what I considered to be inconsiderate and cruel and that became worse as Adrian and friends made it a game to try to win over Jessie.
Turns out both Jessie and Adrian have a Constitutional Law class together and are assigned to make a presentation as a team in favour of same-gender marriage. I found their preparation extremely well-done. I still ponder the question Jessie asked - "Isn't all law based on morals? What about murder?" (paraphrased) That question and the whole issue of dealing with the nuances of the law struck me as being extremely well-handled by the author.
I will not focus on the horrors of Conversion Theory and how it stripped Jessie of his authentic self. As I was reading this in late October, the Supreme Court was hearing a case on the issue that brings up whether conversion theory is a community interest (do we have a right to protect people from being forced into it) or do we leave it to parents and the individual to decide? Again, while I may not have liked the horrors (reality) described by the author, it is an issue properly dealt with and I wish others truly knew what goes on.
In addition, in the end Adrian acted through the latter half of the book as a caring and likeable person. Jessie, an innocent, intelligent, and likeable character throughout shows the skill of characterization by the author.
What I am saying here is that as Christian gay man, I was struck both by the horror of dealing with reality but also how the author handled it as an education by being thorough and sometimes brutal in his honesty.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review as honestly as I can do so voluntarily.
It started with a number of Church people protesting a gay bar when Jessie needs a washroom so sneaks in. Adrian stops him on the way out and challenges him in what I considered to be inconsiderate and cruel and that became worse as Adrian and friends made it a game to try to win over Jessie.
Turns out both Jessie and Adrian have a Constitutional Law class together and are assigned to make a presentation as a team in favour of same-gender marriage. I found their preparation extremely well-done. I still ponder the question Jessie asked - "Isn't all law based on morals? What about murder?" (paraphrased) That question and the whole issue of dealing with the nuances of the law struck me as being extremely well-handled by the author.
I will not focus on the horrors of Conversion Theory and how it stripped Jessie of his authentic self. As I was reading this in late October, the Supreme Court was hearing a case on the issue that brings up whether conversion theory is a community interest (do we have a right to protect people from being forced into it) or do we leave it to parents and the individual to decide? Again, while I may not have liked the horrors (reality) described by the author, it is an issue properly dealt with and I wish others truly knew what goes on.
In addition, in the end Adrian acted through the latter half of the book as a caring and likeable person. Jessie, an innocent, intelligent, and likeable character throughout shows the skill of characterization by the author.
What I am saying here is that as Christian gay man, I was struck both by the horror of dealing with reality but also how the author handled it as an education by being thorough and sometimes brutal in his honesty.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review as honestly as I can do so voluntarily.
October 30, 2025
This book broke my heart in a good way. Jesse is a member of a fundamentalist church that thinks that loving people means yelling at them and threatening them with eternal damnation. His father is a church elder who keeps Jesse on a very tight leash, telling how to dress and what subjects he is allowed to study in college.
Adrian is openly gay, his parents accepted him when he told them. He is currently living in an openly diverse community house near the campus where both he and Jesse go to school. In fact they share a constitutional law course .
They first meet under stressful circumstances, Jesse was force to use the toilet in a gay bar while his church was out front "loving" the people inside. While he was in there Adrian saw signs that Jesse was a closeted gay man himself and decided to free Jesse from the strictures of his churches teachings. It is a sweet teasing out of Jesse learning to be himself. Unfortunately, it was a very public kiss that brought the news to his father that Jesse was gay.
Because Jesse was still legally his father's dependent his father decided Jesse had to go to a conversion camp. After escaping from his father's house Jesse stayed in the diverse campus house for a couple of weeks while they fought in the courts to keep Jesse from being sent to the conversion camp, but ultimately Jesse ended up in the camp anyway. Descriptions of what he went through while there are what broke my heart. Thankfully his found family was able to get him released, and he was able to have his HEA.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Adrian is openly gay, his parents accepted him when he told them. He is currently living in an openly diverse community house near the campus where both he and Jesse go to school. In fact they share a constitutional law course .
They first meet under stressful circumstances, Jesse was force to use the toilet in a gay bar while his church was out front "loving" the people inside. While he was in there Adrian saw signs that Jesse was a closeted gay man himself and decided to free Jesse from the strictures of his churches teachings. It is a sweet teasing out of Jesse learning to be himself. Unfortunately, it was a very public kiss that brought the news to his father that Jesse was gay.
Because Jesse was still legally his father's dependent his father decided Jesse had to go to a conversion camp. After escaping from his father's house Jesse stayed in the diverse campus house for a couple of weeks while they fought in the courts to keep Jesse from being sent to the conversion camp, but ultimately Jesse ended up in the camp anyway. Descriptions of what he went through while there are what broke my heart. Thankfully his found family was able to get him released, and he was able to have his HEA.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 22, 2025
I'm normally not a lover of contemporary romance, but I had recently read another book by the same author (The Seventh Circle, a mafia romance) which I absolutely loved, so I decided wanted to read more by him. And Unbound grabbed me from chapter one. There is something in Macington's writing that just puts you right into the scene. His characters are so lovable and believable and their dilemmas and decisions just have me at the edge of my seat every time.
Unbound is a story about love, obviously, but it's also about believes, about self-doubt and, most of all, about family, the family we are born into as well as the family we find and make for ourselves.
The side characters are all brilliant and well rounded as well. I absolutely love Phoenix. I could literally hear them speak in my mind and it always made me smile. I wish I could flat share with them and the others myself.
The book deals with some heavy topics, especially with conversion therapy and psychological as well as physical torture. That wasn't always easy to read (and it shouldn't be). So this is not a light-hearted romance novel to read at the beach. It has many heartwarming moments, but it's far from being cozy or fluffy, so if that's what you look for in a romance novel, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you are ready for a good dose of emotional trauma, go for it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Unbound is a story about love, obviously, but it's also about believes, about self-doubt and, most of all, about family, the family we are born into as well as the family we find and make for ourselves.
The side characters are all brilliant and well rounded as well. I absolutely love Phoenix. I could literally hear them speak in my mind and it always made me smile. I wish I could flat share with them and the others myself.
The book deals with some heavy topics, especially with conversion therapy and psychological as well as physical torture. That wasn't always easy to read (and it shouldn't be). So this is not a light-hearted romance novel to read at the beach. It has many heartwarming moments, but it's far from being cozy or fluffy, so if that's what you look for in a romance novel, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you are ready for a good dose of emotional trauma, go for it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
Unbound is an intense, beautifully written story that left me emotionally raw. C. G. Macington pulls you straight into the characters’ lives, making every moment of pain, hope, and growth feel incredibly real. This is not a light romance—its depictions of religious abuse and conversion therapy are heavy and should be approached with care. The trigger warnings are essential.
The book is also deeply informative. Beyond the emotional journey, it offers meaningful insight into U.S. law, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and the ongoing struggle for marriage equality. I came away with a deeper understanding of both the legal framework and the personal stakes behind it.
Watching Jesse slowly reclaim himself after a lifetime of fear, with Adrian learning alongside him, is powerful and heart-wrenching. Even the side characters add warmth and depth, balancing the darker moments with genuine connection.
Macington’s storytelling is vivid, emotional, and purposeful. Though difficult at times, the book is ultimately hopeful and incredibly impactful. I genuinely enjoyed the entire reading experience.
I highly recommend it to readers ready for a challenging but deeply meaningful story—one that teaches, hurts, and heals all at once.
The book is also deeply informative. Beyond the emotional journey, it offers meaningful insight into U.S. law, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and the ongoing struggle for marriage equality. I came away with a deeper understanding of both the legal framework and the personal stakes behind it.
Watching Jesse slowly reclaim himself after a lifetime of fear, with Adrian learning alongside him, is powerful and heart-wrenching. Even the side characters add warmth and depth, balancing the darker moments with genuine connection.
Macington’s storytelling is vivid, emotional, and purposeful. Though difficult at times, the book is ultimately hopeful and incredibly impactful. I genuinely enjoyed the entire reading experience.
I highly recommend it to readers ready for a challenging but deeply meaningful story—one that teaches, hurts, and heals all at once.
December 3, 2025
Where to start.....this book was incredible! I have read many M/M books, but this surpasses all of them. I had never come across a book by C.G. Macington before Unbound. This author is very well-written and made it impossible for me to put my book down. Finished it in less than a day and had me searching for more books by him.
Unbound is a beautiful story that makes you smile, laugh, get angry, cry and cry and cry some more. Adrian and Jesse's journey wasn't easy, but watching it blossom into something deeper than either of them could have imagined was inspiring. This story is an example of what it means to truly love someone.
The chemistry between Adrian and Will was off the charts. C.G. made it easy to connect with both of them on a deep and intimate level. I loved Adrian's friends. This group was the type of friends everyone wishes they had by their side - honest, loyal, and not afraid to tell each other when they are wrong. The people in Jesse's life were horrible, vile, and beyond redemption with exception to Rebecca.
If this your genre I highly recommend this book.
There are definitely triggering situations so be sure to read the warning at the beginning of the book.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unbound is a beautiful story that makes you smile, laugh, get angry, cry and cry and cry some more. Adrian and Jesse's journey wasn't easy, but watching it blossom into something deeper than either of them could have imagined was inspiring. This story is an example of what it means to truly love someone.
The chemistry between Adrian and Will was off the charts. C.G. made it easy to connect with both of them on a deep and intimate level. I loved Adrian's friends. This group was the type of friends everyone wishes they had by their side - honest, loyal, and not afraid to tell each other when they are wrong. The people in Jesse's life were horrible, vile, and beyond redemption with exception to Rebecca.
If this your genre I highly recommend this book.
There are definitely triggering situations so be sure to read the warning at the beginning of the book.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2025
This is one of the most emotional books I have read in a long long time. I would like to say thank you for my ARC of this amazing book. It's hard to put into words what I am feeling and what I think. I just finished and tears are still falling down my cheeks and I think they will for a while. Please do not ignore the trigger warnings. They are there for a purpose and please read them so your review can be honest should you decide to review. This book is educational while being a fiction romance. I know I learned a lot from reading this book. Wonderful characters and in beautifully written sensitive story. It was totally believable and I can see the scenes and am still chasing goosies away. The conversations were so well written and the emotion throughout them and the book could clearly be seen. There is so much I want to say and could say but I don't want to give anything away. Please be careful should you choose to read this book but I highly recommend and hope that all who read it do so with an open mind and judgement free. Thank you C. G. Macington for a touching, beautiful and sensitive book.
November 24, 2025
This was an intense story. Please be sure to heed the warnings, this is not a book to go into lightly. It is painful in parts. However, there are light hearted and even fun parts, but it's just the hard parts are very hard to read.
Jesse has been raised to be the perfect representative of his father's church, repressed and beaten down by his father's beliefs. He meets Adrian in the most odd way but Adrian sees something in Jesse. Enough that he wants to see what's under that scared exterior. So while his motives aren't the best in the beginning, Adrian does support and eventually love Jesse enough to help him out of that environment. The 'conversion' scenes are extremely painful and hard to read. The only saving grace in the church is Rebecca, who has been protecting Jesse since they were young and remains his friend.
After some very intense moments, eventually Jesse and Adrian find their way together and even make some changes.
Beautiful writing but, again, very painful and intense. Recommended, but again, heed the warnings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jesse has been raised to be the perfect representative of his father's church, repressed and beaten down by his father's beliefs. He meets Adrian in the most odd way but Adrian sees something in Jesse. Enough that he wants to see what's under that scared exterior. So while his motives aren't the best in the beginning, Adrian does support and eventually love Jesse enough to help him out of that environment. The 'conversion' scenes are extremely painful and hard to read. The only saving grace in the church is Rebecca, who has been protecting Jesse since they were young and remains his friend.
After some very intense moments, eventually Jesse and Adrian find their way together and even make some changes.
Beautiful writing but, again, very painful and intense. Recommended, but again, heed the warnings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2026
C. G. Macington is one of those authors I trust completely, especially when it comes to difficult, emotionally demanding topics—and Unbound is a perfect example of why. This is not an easy book, nor is it meant to be. The author tackles conversion therapy not for shock value, but because the story genuinely requires it, showing both how such practices operate and the deep, lasting scars they leave behind.
Jesse’s journey is painful, raw, and necessary. The focus on healing—slow, uneven, and deeply personal—feels honest and respectful. I truly appreciate when authors approach heavy themes with care and purpose, and Unbound does exactly that. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic gains real emotional weight because of what Jesse has endured, making their connection feel earned rather than convenient.
This is one of those books that stays with you long after finishing—and one I would happily own in both paperback and hardcover.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jesse’s journey is painful, raw, and necessary. The focus on healing—slow, uneven, and deeply personal—feels honest and respectful. I truly appreciate when authors approach heavy themes with care and purpose, and Unbound does exactly that. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic gains real emotional weight because of what Jesse has endured, making their connection feel earned rather than convenient.
This is one of those books that stays with you long after finishing—and one I would happily own in both paperback and hardcover.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
I am not being hyperbolic when I say that this book brought me to tears. The storyline was so good that I could not put it down. Every month I select my favorite book for the month and I believe this is going to be my favorite for November and it is only the 9th. I do not think another book will come close to how excellent this one was.
The story line is smooth, the characters have distinct voices, and it was overall a such an emotional story. I loved it so much. I also really loved the focus on the US Constitution and the attention given to the fundamental rights for all. Especially with everything happening right now in courts and politically, making this information accessible and understandable is so important.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am so grateful to have received an ARC copy of this book because it gave me the opportunity to discover this author.
The story line is smooth, the characters have distinct voices, and it was overall a such an emotional story. I loved it so much. I also really loved the focus on the US Constitution and the attention given to the fundamental rights for all. Especially with everything happening right now in courts and politically, making this information accessible and understandable is so important.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am so grateful to have received an ARC copy of this book because it gave me the opportunity to discover this author.
November 5, 2025
Absolutely riveting! Jesse and Adrian are philosophical enemies. Jesse has been carefully programmed to hate everything Adrian represents by his parents and his church. Adrian sees something in Jesse, a conflict of what he's presenting to the world and what's buried deep inside. Adrian, on a dare, pursues Jesse to shake his faith. What starts out as a game turns serious as they get to know each other and as Jesse is forced to examine his beliefs as they work together in their law class. Jesse's one act of breaking free is very public and the fallout is heart rendering. If you are at all sensitive from abuse this portion could be a little much, but as graphic as it is it's important. Jesse and Adrian come out the other side, resolved to never let anyone else suffer.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 12, 2025
This story is so timely. These men are in very different places. Jesse has been taught to protest at the gay bar that Adrian parties at. But once Jesse crosses that line and starts to realize that maybe what he has been taught is not only not right but also that he has more in common with Adrian than he has been allowed to consider. This story has some very difficult moments in it as Jesse finds his way to his own truth. Adrian approached Jesse initially on a dare but as they get to know one another in a class that they have together things take off which has implications for Jesse. Ultimately, they do get to their ever after. On the way, this story was emotional and at times heartbreaking and a good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
Jesse comes from a very religious conservative family. One night out protesting with his family he steps aside to relieve himself at the local "Pride" bar he's protesting. He meets Adrian who taunts him. He goes to university the next day only to realize Adrian is a classmate of his in his law class. One thing leads to another & they get chosen to a class debate together. Adrian opens his eyes to things he never realized in his close minded world. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have been an avid reader & lover of C.G. Macington writing & he outdid himself on this one.
November 24, 2025
This book left me emotionally raw. For every sweet scene there a so many tragically sad ones. The way these characters are presented and the situations they’ve been put through are heart wrenching either in the sweetest way or the worst. The trigger warnings are real and should be taken seriously. I can honestly say I cried more than once while reading this. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 27, 2025
Wow. It started out feeling like an episode of Queer As Folk and then got super serious super fast.
Personally I felt that the content made it too heavy and I found it overwhelming.
But the subject matter is important- how do you strike a balance, I don't know.
It was cute, it was funny, it was sad, it was scary.
Would I read it again? Yes 😊
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Personally I felt that the content made it too heavy and I found it overwhelming.
But the subject matter is important- how do you strike a balance, I don't know.
It was cute, it was funny, it was sad, it was scary.
Would I read it again? Yes 😊
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2026
i feel like i'm living a fever dream because this book has great reviews but i'm not entirely convinced it wasn't written by AI?!? something about the sentence structure, the repetitiveness of some of the sections, characters' personalities doing a 180 and even their eyes changing colour halfway through the story (jesse's eyes went from blue to hazel) just screamed AI book to me. i loved the concept but the execution was seriously lacking.
October 31, 2025
The emotions I felt reading this were almost too much. The strength, courage and heart from all characters was phenomenal, and I would expect nothing less from C. G. Macington. He is an incredible author and I have truly enjoyed every single book I've read.
I received an ARC from Book Sirens for my honest review.
I received an ARC from Book Sirens for my honest review.
December 26, 2025
Please check the trigger warnings on this book.
It was a really good book of two individuals literally from opposing sides coming together. There are certain aspects that I would have liked the author to delve deeper and the ending was a tad rushed in my opinion. Otherwise, it was a really good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was a really good book of two individuals literally from opposing sides coming together. There are certain aspects that I would have liked the author to delve deeper and the ending was a tad rushed in my opinion. Otherwise, it was a really good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2025
Powerful
This is a painful but very powerful story. The detail that is described is sometimes pretty hard to read but very important. These kinds of camps or therapies are so incredibly damaging and still happen in some parts either underground or just out in the open. Good story.
This is a painful but very powerful story. The detail that is described is sometimes pretty hard to read but very important. These kinds of camps or therapies are so incredibly damaging and still happen in some parts either underground or just out in the open. Good story.
December 4, 2025
Definitely read the trigger warnings.
This was a very emotional read. A very good character study that thoroughly examines religion, love and fundamental freedoms. I found it to be very thought provoking.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a very emotional read. A very good character study that thoroughly examines religion, love and fundamental freedoms. I found it to be very thought provoking.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2026
The message was powerful, the storytelling was weak.
The plot was thin albeit likely realistic. Clearly conversion therapy and related methods should be banned. They are a firm reminder of prior outrageous behavior by fundamentalists. (Salem Witch trials, inquisition, etc)
The plot was thin albeit likely realistic. Clearly conversion therapy and related methods should be banned. They are a firm reminder of prior outrageous behavior by fundamentalists. (Salem Witch trials, inquisition, etc)
November 11, 2025
C.G. Macington has done it again! This author is unafraid of high stakes/high angst situations and he has the writing chops to pull them off.
This is the third book I have read by him and it may be my favorite so far. I felt for both of the MCs--though it took awhile to find Adrian sympathetic. Jesse, the closeted son of Christian fundamentalists, is such a brave and sympathetic character and I felt for him from the very beginning. The book is an excellent critique of religious fanaticism and the newly revived practice of conversion therapy. I also enjoyed how the author handled the complex legal issues. I felt angry, fearful and sad for alot of the book but that is what the subject matter demanded.
The first half of the book was a bit slow and the final sex scene seemed a bit gratuitous but these are minor quibbles. I rooted for the MCs and especially loved the crucial role that Jesse's (and Adrian's) found family played. These secondary characters, as well as Jesse's friend Rebecca, are given nice delineation with sympathy and wit.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
This is the third book I have read by him and it may be my favorite so far. I felt for both of the MCs--though it took awhile to find Adrian sympathetic. Jesse, the closeted son of Christian fundamentalists, is such a brave and sympathetic character and I felt for him from the very beginning. The book is an excellent critique of religious fanaticism and the newly revived practice of conversion therapy. I also enjoyed how the author handled the complex legal issues. I felt angry, fearful and sad for alot of the book but that is what the subject matter demanded.
The first half of the book was a bit slow and the final sex scene seemed a bit gratuitous but these are minor quibbles. I rooted for the MCs and especially loved the crucial role that Jesse's (and Adrian's) found family played. These secondary characters, as well as Jesse's friend Rebecca, are given nice delineation with sympathy and wit.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
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